Posted January 4, 2016

Archbishop Charles Chaput offered the following prayer at the inauguration of Philadelphia’s new mayor, Jim Kenney, and the Investiture of City Council at the Academy of Music Monday, Jan. 4. In sharing his prayer, he asks everyone to join with him to pray for all who govern the City of Philadelphia.

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Samuel Adams, the political philosopher and one of our nation’s Founding Fathers, once observed that a person “is the truest friend of the liberty of his country who tries most to promote its virtue.”

As citizens of the United States and this wonderful City of Philadelphia, we’ve inherited freedoms and opportunities that set a standard for much of the world. We have so very much to be grateful for as we begin the new year – and so let’s turn our hearts for a moment to the God who made us and who sustains us with his love.

Father in heaven,

Scripture teaches us that you formed us in the womb, you created us in your image, and you guarantee the dignity of each and every human being. Make us faithful stewards of the time you give us in this world. Help us to be builders and peacemakers. Help us to remember the poor and to protect the weak. Help us to reflect your light to the world, and to show by our actions that truth, integrity and service still shape the purpose of American public life.

Bless Mayor Kenney and his time of service, the members of our City Council, their families and all the men and women who serve with them. And pour down your grace on all Philadelphians, so that the renewal of this great city will begin and take root in the goodness and decency of its people. 

We ask this in your name, as your sons and daughters, confident in your love. Amen.